Sartorius Quintix® Semi-Micro Balance

Overview

The Sartorius Quintix® Semi-Micro Balance is an ISO/IEC 17025–aligned precision weighing instrument engineered for laboratories requiring consistent sub-milligram accuracy in routine and regulated workflows. Operating on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) principle, the Quintix® delivers high reproducibility and long-term stability under variable ambient conditions. Its core architecture integrates temperature-compensated load cell design with real-time environmental monitoring—enabling dynamic drift correction and minimizing thermal influence on measurement integrity. Designed specifically for semi-micro applications—including analytical sample preparation, reference standard dispensing, pharmaceutical formulation, and quality control testing—the balance meets critical regulatory expectations for traceability, audit readiness, and metrological rigor.

Key Features

• Automatic internal calibration (isoCAL) triggered by time intervals, temperature shifts (>1.5 °C), or user command—fully compliant with ISO 9001 and pharmacopeial requirements (USP , EP 2.1.6)
• 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen interface with intuitive icon-based navigation, context-sensitive prompts, and multilingual support (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese)
• Integrated applications suite: density determination (solid/liquid), percentage weighing, statistics, formulation, pipette calibration, and net/gross/tare management—all accessible without external software
• Direct data transfer via USB connection to Windows® systems using virtual COM port emulation—supports native Excel® paste functionality with configurable delimiter (tab/comma) and auto-timestamping
• Ergonomic design with adjustable draft shield height, front-access leveling feet, and low-profile weighing pan (Ø 90 mm) optimized for volumetric glassware and small containers
• GLP/GMP-compliant audit trail: all isoCAL events, zero checks, user logins, and configuration changes are timestamped, user-identified, and stored internally with non-volatile memory retention

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Quintix® accommodates a broad range of sample formats—from powder aliquots in aluminum weighing boats to liquid samples in volumetric flasks and density kits. Its draft shield assembly (standard with sliding front door and side ports) ensures stable readings for volatile or hygroscopic materials. All firmware and hardware configurations adhere to ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4 (equipment verification), FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic records/signatures), and EU Annex 11 (computerized systems). Built-in validation tools support IQ/OQ documentation templates aligned with GxP environments, and optional password-protected user roles (Operator, Supervisor, Administrator) enforce procedural controls.

Software & Data Management

No third-party drivers or middleware are required for data acquisition. The balance operates as a HID-compliant device, enabling plug-and-play integration with LIMS, ELN, and ERP platforms via ASCII or SCS protocol over USB or RS-232. Internal memory stores up to 1,000 measurement records with metadata (date/time, operator ID, application mode, calibration status). Export options include CSV, TXT, and PDF report generation (via optional PC software Sartorius LabX® Lite). All data exports retain full traceability, including isoCAL event logs, environmental sensor outputs (temperature/humidity), and system diagnostics—critical for regulatory inspections and method validation.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: assay of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipient blending verification, and reference standard weighing per ICH Q5C and USP
• Academic research: gravimetric preparation of calibration standards for ICP-MS, HPLC, and titration workflows
• Materials science: density characterization of polymers, ceramics, and nanocomposites using Archimedean principle with integrated buoyancy correction
• Environmental labs: micro-weighing of filter membranes pre/post-extraction for PM2.5/PM10 analysis (EPA Method 201A)
• Clinical diagnostics: precise reagent dispensing for immunoassay kit manufacturing under ISO 13485

FAQ

What does “isoCAL” stand for, and how does it differ from conventional internal calibration?
isoCAL refers to Sartorius’ patented temperature-triggered internal calibration system, which continuously monitors ambient temperature gradients and initiates recalibration automatically when deviation exceeds ±1.5 °C—ensuring continuous metrological traceability without manual intervention.
Is the Quintix® compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records?
Yes—the balance supports audit-trail-enabled operation with unique user authentication, electronic signature capability (via LabX®), and immutable data logging meeting Part 11 Subpart B requirements for closed systems.
Can the Quintix® be connected to a networked LIMS without additional hardware?
Direct Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity is not built-in; however, USB-to-Ethernet gateways or serial servers may be deployed in validated configurations—full integration guidance is available in Sartorius Application Note AN-QUINTIX-002.
Does the balance support density measurement of irregular solids?
Yes—using the integrated density application with optional Sartorius Density Kit (including sinker, thermometer, and liquid bath), users can perform ASTM D792-compliant solid density measurements with automatic air buoyancy correction.
What is the recommended recalibration frequency under ISO/IEC 17025?
Recalibration interval must be risk-assessed per Clause 6.4.10; however, typical laboratory practice—supported by isoCAL’s continuous monitoring—permits extended intervals (e.g., quarterly) when combined with daily performance verification using certified weights.